# Good Example –
Beef and Lentil Soup with Bacon and Toast Bites
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Introduction
Warm your soul with a comforting bowl of Beef and Lentil Soup with Bacon and Toast Bites. This recipe combines hearty beef, rich flavours of lentils, and crunchy bacon bites for a delectable mix that brings joy in every spoonful.
Why make this recipe
This soup is not only a treat to your taste buds but also packed with nutrients. The lentils offer a protein boost while the vegetables provide essential vitamins. It’s a perfect balance of health and flavour.
How to make Beef and Lentil Soup with Bacon and Toast Bites
Ingredients:
– 1lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 slices bacon, chopped
– 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5oz) diced tomatoes
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cubed bread (like baguette or sourdough)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
1. Cook the bacon slices in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, keeping the bacon fat in the pot.
2. Brown the beef in the pot and set it aside.
3. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in the pot until they soften.
4. Add lentils, tomatoes, beef broth, browned beef, thyme, bay leaf to the pot and bring the mixture to boil.
5. After boiling, reduce heat to simmer. Let it cook for about an hour until the lentils and beef are tender. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss the bread cubes in oil and toast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until golden.
7. Serve by removing the bay leaf from the soup first. Then ladle it into bowls and sprinkle crispy bacon, parsley, and toast bites on top.
How to serve Beef and Lentil Soup with Bacon and Toast Bites
Serve this mouth-watering soup in a large bowl garnished with crispy bacon and toast bites. Accompany this soup with a side of warm, crusty bread.
How to store Beef and Lentil Soup with Bacon and Toast Bites
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in a microwave.
Tips to make Beef and Lentil Soup with Bacon and Toast Bites
– For maximum flavour, brown the beef and bacon well.
– Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove any debris or stones.
– Keep stirring while the soup is simmering to prevent sticking to the pot.
– For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and beef and use vegetable broth instead.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use a slow cooker to make this soup?
A1: Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Follow the same steps but allow to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the lentils and beef are tender.
Q2: Can I freeze this soup?
A2: Yes, this soup freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.
Q3: What other types of lentils could I use?
A3: This recipe works well with any kind of lentils. However, green and brown lentils hold their shape well during long cooking periods.
Relish the comforting blend of flavours in this Beef and Lentil Soup with Bacon and Toast Bites recipe. Enjoy the crunch of the bacon and the soothing warmth of the soup as you tuck into this heartwarming dish.